Daniels, Jr., McCarron Named Big Ten Player of the Week

IOWA CITY — University of Iowa senior running backLeShun Daniels, Jr. and senior wide receiver Riley McCarron have been recognized as Big Ten Conference Players of the Week for their performances in Iowa’s 28-0 win at Illinois.

Daniels was named the co-Offensive Player of the Week, while McCarron shared the weekly honor as Special Teams Player of the Week.  Daniels was also named Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week by College Sports Madness.

Daniels led Iowa’s offense as the Hawkeyes rushed for 262 yards and gained 342 yards total offense.  Daniels matched his career high with 26 rushing attempts, gaining 159 yards.  He scored twice, giving Iowa a 14-0 lead with a 1-yard plunge in the third quarter, and then scoring from 50 yards in the final period to move the advantage to 21-0. 

Daniels has rushed for at least 150 yards three times in his career, and has scored more than one touchdown in six career games.  He ranks 19th in career rushing yards (1,685) and has scored 104 career points.

McCarron had two punt returns against Illinois for 72 yards, including a 55-yard touchdown in the second quarter that provided the only points in the first half.  He later added a 17-yard return.

McCarron, who leads the Hawkeyes in receiving for the season (36-398), also had one pass reception for 16 yards as Iowa won its fourth road game of the year.

The Big Ten recognition is the first for both Daniels and McCarron.

Earlier this season, punter Ron Coluzzi was named Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week for his play in Iowa’s win at Rutgers, while redshirt freshman Anthony Nelson was named Freshman of the Week for his efforts in the opening win over Miami, Ohio.

Three Hawkeyes were honored by the Big Ten following the 14-13 win over second-ranked Michigan, including senior DT Jaleel Johnson (defense), freshman kicker Keith Duncan (special teams), and freshman DB Manny Rugamba (Freshman of the Week).  The three honors in one week are the most ever for the Hawkeyes.

Iowa (7-4, 5-3) is bowl eligible for the 15th time in the last 16 seasons.  The Hawkeyes close the regular season Fridayagainst Nebraska in Kinnick Stadium (2:30 p.m., ABC).